Ispaghula husk for constipation
Fybogel, Ispagel, YourFIBRE
Peer reviewed by Sid DajaniLast updated by Michael Stewart, MRPharmSLast updated 12 Dec 2022
Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines
- DownloadDownload
- Share
Take the contents of each sachet of ispaghula husk stirred into a glass of water (about 150 ml). Drink it straightaway after mixing.
Eating a healthy diet, drinking plenty of water and getting regular gentle exercise can all help prevent constipation.
It may take a few days before you feel the full benefit from taking ispaghula husk.
In this article:
Continue reading below
About ispaghula husk
Type of medicine | A bulk-forming laxative |
Used for | Constipation |
Also called | Psyllium husk (in US); Fybogel®; Ispagel®; Fybogel Hi-Fibre®; ourFIBRE® |
Available as | Granules in sachets |
Constipation is a common problem which can be caused by a number of things. Not eating enough fibre or not drinking enough fluid can cause constipation. Some conditions (such as pregnancy) can cause constipation, as can a lack of exercise or movement (such as being ill in bed) and some medicines.
Often, increasing the amount of fibre (bran) in your diet and drinking plenty of water each day can effectively prevent or relieve constipation. You will have been recommended ispaghula husk to help relieve constipation if you cannot increase the amount of fibre in your diet, or if this is insufficient. Ispaghula husk, a laxative, works by increasing the bulk of your stools, which encourages your bowels to move the stools through your digestive system, in turn relieving constipation.
Sachets containing granules of ispaghula husk are available on prescription, and can also be bought without a prescription at pharmacies and other retail outlets.
Before taking ispaghula husk
To make sure this is the right treatment for you, ask for advice from a doctor or pharmacist before you start using ispaghula husk if any of the following apply to you:
If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breastfeeding. This is because, while you are expecting or feeding a baby, you should only take medicines on the recommendation of a doctor.
If it is for a child. This is because laxatives should only be given to children on the advice of a doctor or healthcare professional.
If you have any problems with the way your kidneys work or you are on a potassium-controlled diet.
If you have any difficulty in swallowing.
If you are so constipated that you think you may have a blockage.
If you are taking any other medicines. This includes any medicines you are taking which are available to buy without a prescription, as well as herbal and complementary medicines.
If you have ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.
Continue reading below
How to take ispaghula husk
Before you start the treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside the pack. It will give you more information about ispaghula husk and will provide you with a full list of the side-effects which you may experience.
Take ispaghula husk exactly as your doctor tells you to, or as directed on the pack. The usual dose for an adult is one sachet taken twice a day. Pour the granules from the sachet into a glass of water (about 150 ml), stir well, and then drink the liquid as soon as possible.
It is best if you take your doses just after a meal. Never take a dose at bedtime.
If a doctor or healthcare professional has recommended ispaghula husk for your child, check the label on the pack carefully to make sure that you give the correct dose for the age of your child. Remember to stir the granules into a glass of water before giving the mixture to your child.
If you forget to take a dose, do not worry, just take the next dose when it is due. Do not take two doses together to make up for a forgotten dose.
Getting the most from your treatment
Sometimes it may take a few days before you feel the full benefit from a bulk-forming laxative such as ispaghula husk. However, if after several days you do not feel that your symptoms are improving, or if they become any worse, you should speak with a doctor.
It is important to drink plenty while you are taking ispaghula husk. Adults should aim to drink at least two litres (about 8-10 cups) of fluid per day. Most sorts of drink will do, but as a start, try just drinking a glass of water 3-4 times a day in addition to what you normally drink.
Try to eat a balanced diet containing high-fibre foods such as wholemeal and wholegrain breads and cereals, fruit and vegetables, brown rice and wholemeal pasta. If you are not used to a high-fibre diet, it may be best to increase the amount of fibre you eat gradually.
Keeping your body active will help you to keep your digestive system moving, so try to take some regular daily exercise.
You may wish to include some foods in your diet that contain sorbitol. Sorbitol is a naturally occurring sugar. It is not digested very well and draws water into your bowel which has an effect of softening stools. Fruits (and their juices) that have a high sorbitol content include apples, apricots, gooseberries, grapes (and raisins), peaches, pears, plums, prunes, raspberries and strawberries.
You can read more about how to prevent or treat constipation in the separate leaflets called Constipation (for adults) and Constipation in Children.
Continue reading below
Can ispaghula husk cause problems?
Along with their useful effects, most medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. The table below contains the ones which sometimes occur with ispaghula husk. You will find a full list in the manufacturer's information leaflet supplied with your medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following continue or become troublesome.
Ispaghula husk side-effects | What can I do if I experience this? |
Mild allergic-type reactions such as nose or eye irritation, feeling short of breath, itchy skin | Stop taking the granules and speak with your doctor or pharmacist for advice |
Excess wind (flatulence), bloating, tummy (abdominal) discomfort | As you become used to the extra fibre, these effects should settle down |
If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to the granules, speak with your doctor or pharmacist for further advice.
How to store ispaghula husk
Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
Important information about all medicines
Important information about all medicines
If you are due to have an operation or any dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
If you buy any medicines, always check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.
Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else might have taken an overdose of this medicine, go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital. Take the container with you, even if it is empty.
This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
Do not keep out-of-date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.
Report side effects to a medicine or vaccine
If you experience side effects, you can report them online through the Yellow Card website.
Further reading and references
- Manufacturer's PIL, Fybogel® Orange Granules; Forum Health Products Limited, The electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated August 2021.
- Medicines Complete BNF 88th Edition; British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London.
Article history
The information on this page is written and peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
Next review due: 11 Dec 2025
12 Dec 2022 | Latest version
Are you protected against flu?
See if you are eligible for a free NHS flu jab today.
Feeling unwell?
Assess your symptoms online for free